Many fitness enthusiasts who have succeeded in fitness disciplines, such as CrossFit at a Dave Barton’s Gym, will dismiss the 5K marathon as next to nothing because it’s just running, after all. But this is such a wrong attitude to take because a 5K marathon isn’t as easy as it seems – just ask somebody who underestimated it but didn’t finish their first 5K run.
Even with your gym fitness training, it takes a special mind and body training to finish a 5K run without telling yourself it’s the first and last time you will do it. But when you finish it, you will understand the heart of runner’s high and have a newfound respect for runners. Here are the ways that you can prepare for your first 5K so that you actually get to the finish line on a high.
Know the Basics of the Run First
Keep in mind that 5 kilometres equals 3.1 miles so you have an idea of the length of the run. You will also have an idea whether you should train more or train at your current level on the treadmill.
You can train at your current level, perhaps up the ante slightly, if you can run for 30 minutes nonstop at a moderate pace on a treadmill. You should train harder if 30 minutes seems like torture since a 5K run will definitely take its toll on your body otherwise.
But since running on a treadmill is different from running outdoors, you should also know the route so that you can train accordingly. You should have 8-10 weeks of training so that you can finish the race, too, with a decent time.
You are well-advised to choose a race on a flat, paved course, if you’re a beginner because it will be easier. You may also choose a trail race, if you want to push your body further, but your training will be different. You have to run inclines on a treadmill in case you sign up for a trail race since there will likely be hills on the route.
Create Your Running Plan
As soon as you sign up, you should start your training program, again preferably at least 8 weeks before the event. You may want to hire a running professional to build your training program or you can also subscribe to an online training plan, such as the Couch to 5K (C25K) app available for Android and iOS devices.
You should remember that running a 5K isn’t just about putting one foot in front of the other – it’s actually a demanding fitness program that demands total mind and body coordination. You should also take into consideration that running can be boring, uncomfortable, and subject to environmental factors (i.e., rain, sun, and mud). You must then plan accordingly, such as wearing the right gear, running with a buddy, and training hard.